Those looking for a reason to take a cruise in the country Sunday afternoon need look no further than the local chapter of the American Red Cross.

The Scotland County chapter and the Robeson County branch of the American Red Cross will sponsor their third annual Red Cross Riders for Disaster Relief event this weekend to raise funds for local disaster relief efforts. Open to all motorcycles and all cars of any type, the event promises to combine a fun afternoon in the country with contributing to an outstanding cause, according to Scotland County Chapter Executive Director Carol Ann Lentz.

"We're looking for 100 motorcycles and cars to join us in an enjoyable ride through the country," Lentz said. "All types of vehicles are welcome, including trucks and station wagons, classic or not. Registration will take place from 1:30 until 2:15 p.m. on Sunday, with the ride beginning at 2:30 p.m. at the Pembroke Rural Fire Department, located at 1398 Prospect Road in Pembroke. From there we will ride to Fairmont, then to Lumber River State Park, to the office of the Lumberton Chapter of the American Red Cross, and then back to the fire department."

Food, prizes, and a 50/50 raffle await the participants at the end of the ride.

"We will have grilled hot dogs, baked beans, chips and dessert for the riders," Lentz said, "followed by the raffle and prizes."

Costs for the event are $15 per motorcycle or car and $10 for each additional rider. Raffle tickets are $1 for three tickets and $10 for "an arm's length", according to Lentz.

Emerson Veler of Laurinburg has participated in each of the two previous benefit rides.

"This event is a lot of fun," he said. "I enjoy being able to see parts of the surrounding area I wouldn't ordinarily visit, and I really enjoy helping to raise money for a good cause."

Harley rider Chesley McQueen agreed.

"I had a great time last year on the ride, and would highly recommend it to others. It's a good event for a really great cause."

All proceeds from the ride will benefit the disaster relief efforts of the Scotland County and Robeson County Red Cross chapter and branch.

"Last year, in the two counties alone, the Red Cross spent $111,154 responding to 115 local disasters. A total of 392 people were assisted," Lentz said.

National statistics reflect a similar trend. On average, Red Cross volunteers assist 200 families who have lost everything in a house fire or other disaster every 24 hours; a total of 21,000 people receive blood transfusions from American Red Cross donors every 24 hours; and in the same time period, the Red Cross connects an average of 475 service members deployed overseas with loved ones through its emergency messaging system.

Lentz thanks all the "wonderful supporters" of the Red Cross and of past participants in the ride for disaster relief.

"We invite you all to come join us for a fun, relaxing ride in the country, and we thank you for your continued contributions to the American Red Cross," she said. "Please remember that 'help can't wait': together, we can transform a life of crisis into a life of hope."

Call 276-0600 or 738-5057 for more information and for sponsor opportunities ranging from $25 to $100.